Early labor—short, mild contractions 20 or more minutes apart—can last quite a while in a first pregnancy. Check with us at the hospital if you believe you’re in early labor; we can help you decide when to come in.

Try these tips in early labor:

• If labor begins at night, try to rest while your contractions progress.
   
• If labor begins in the day, find a quiet activity to distract yourself—take a walk, visit with a friend, read or listen to music. Sleep if you can.
   
• Urinate often to be as comfortable as possible, and because a full bladder can slow the descent of your baby’s head.
   
• A long, warm shower may feel wonderful and speed dilation.
   
• Labor will slow down your digestion, so eat light, easy-to-digest foods: broths, decaffeinated tea and toast.
   
• Use your relaxation breathing as needed. 
   

See also...

Stages of labor and childbirth.What to expect.

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